If you're in the market for a new foundation and it's been a while since you shopped for makeup, you have your work cut out for you. It's not enough to simply pick the right shade off the shelf. You have to put some serious thought into the foundation you purchase, especially if you want to get the right results. Here are four tips that will help you choose the right foundation for your complexion.

Know Your Personal Skin Type

If you're going to purchase a new foundation, the first thing you need to do is identify your skin type. You might not realize this, but purchasing a foundation that isn't created for your skin type could leave you with flawed results. For instance, if you have oily skin, the wrong foundation could make the problem worse. If you have a problem with dry skin, the wrong foundation could leave you with itchy, flakes. If you're not sure what type of skin you have, talk to your dermatologist.

Read Up on the Customer Reviews

If you're going to be switching brands, be sure to read up on the customer reviews. This is particularly important if the brand you're going to try is new to the market, or has a new product that you want to try. Customer reviews will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the makeup you plan to use on your skin. Beauty blogs are particularly beneficial when it comes to choosing the right makeup. Beauty blogs are often filled with detailed information about the brands you're interested in.

Take a New Foundation on a Test Run

If you're going to try a completely different foundation, take it on a test run first. Most makeup boutiques and beauty supply stores sell sample sizes of their makeup products. These smaller sizes allow you to try a variety of colors before you invest in a full supply. Sampling a few selections will help you get the color just right. Not only that, but the samples will allow you to identify potential allergy problems before you commit to a specific makeup.

Separate Your SPF and Foundation

If you normally purchase foundations that contain SPF protection, it's time to make a change. Foundation that contains SPF can become watery, which results in a less-than-perfect finish. Using separate SPF protection and foundations help you achieve a flawless finish, without jeopardizing your sun protection.

For more information, check out some makeup review blogs.